People visiting Redding-area parks and other public places may be surprised to discover colorful ceramic globes hidden in trees and shrubs beginning on Mother's Day.

The fragile, artistic orbs aren't leftover Easter eggs but fine pieces of artwork created by local artists that have been placed as part of a treasure hunt by members of the North Valley Art League

The outdoor quest also is a way to bring attention to the art league, whose home is in Redding's Caldwell Park that years ago used to house the Carter House Museum.

Colorful ceramic globes are being hidden in public places as part of a treasure hunt by the North Valley Art League. Some of the globes can be turned in for prizes.(Photo: Contributed photo)

"These are works of art," said Deborah Curtis Vercammen, a North Valley Art League board member and chairman of this Globe Hunt Project.

The treasure hunt is intended to let the community learn more about the 350-plus artists who belong to the league. Each year the league sponsors competitive and juried shows, including one for photography. The group presents workshops and painting classes for the public and most months it hosts artist's receptions.

The globes come in various styles, are numbered, show the letters NVAL on the bottom and they're finders keepers. Some of the globes are worth a prize and can be brought to the art league at 48 Quartz Hill Road for redemption.

Colorful ceramic globes in many styles are being hidden in public places as part of a treasure hunt by the North Valley Art League. Some of the globes can be turned in for prizes.(Photo: Contributed photo)

The prizes are courtesy of local businesses and include movie tickets, an oil painting, locally-made jewelry and coupons good at restaurants or beauty shops, among other items.

"They're all in public places — in safe places, not buried," Vercammen said of the unique artwork. "They're going to be hidden in parks and points of interest between Redding, Anderson and Cottonwood."

Hiding spots include the community of Shasta and around business areas. The globes won't be in dark or dangerous areas and they'll be accessible 24 hours a day.